Culture clash: How to have an inter-faith wedding

When it comes to weddings, tradition has been thrown out the window. Couples are marrying outside of their religion and opting out of traditional church wedding ceremonies more now than ever.

So what does the bride do if she’s Jewish and her husband is Indian? Should they be married by a rabbi or a priest? Will The Seven Blessings (Sheva Brachot) or four hymns (Laavan) be recited? Here are three suggestions to avoid the potential culture clash that may result from a non-traditional wedding.

By Cynthia Reyna

When it comes to weddings, tradition has been thrown out the window. Couples are marrying outside of their religion and opting out of traditional church wedding ceremonies more now than ever.

So what does the bride do if she’s Jewish and her husband is Indian? Should they be married by a rabbi or a priest? Will The Seven Blessings (Sheva Brachot) or four hymns (Laavan) be recited? Here are three suggestions to avoid the potential culture clash that may result from a non-traditional wedding.

1. Hold an outdoors ceremony

One option a couple can choose to maintain neutrality between their faiths is having the wedding ceremony outside of a church or other place of worship. Some couples choose a destination wedding in which the couple, along with their family and friends, travel to an exotic place for the wedding. Other couples may choose to hold the ceremony at a hall. These options allow the couple to incorporate both their religions, or omit religious observation altogether.

2. Have a ceremony for each religion

For other couples, religion plays a major role in their lives, so holding the ceremony outside of a church would not be an option. Having a wedding recognized by the church of each religion would be the utmost priority. Although this may be both costly and time-consuming, it is often the only option that honors both faiths equally. Choosing this option also may avert a family feud.

3. Split faiths between ceremony, reception

One last tip involves holding the ceremony entirely within the traditions of one faith and the reception entirely within those of the other faith. Although still some compromise and understanding is required between both parties, this option enables both religions to celebrate the marriage equally, while also representing the traditions of each faith. These tips can help clashing cultures run parallel and allow the couple and their families to have a memorable wedding day.

SIDEBAR

Obtaining an online ordination license

Some couples are opting to have a friend perform the wedding ceremony, even if the friend isn’t currently a minister. Can you really just go online and get ordained?

How do you get licensed online?

Those interested in becoming an ordained minister online can do so through the Universal Life Church, www.themona-stery.org. Just complete an ordination form to receive an ordination credential.

Is it legitimate?

The Universal Life Church’s ordinations are recognized as legitimate by the U.S. government. However, the requirements for performing wedding ceremonies vary for each state. Information on marriage laws and regulations is available at www.marriagelaws.com.

How much time does it take?

After filling out the ordination form with Universal Life Church, the applicant will receive a confirmation e-mail within 24 hours. The total ordination process, however, depends on the applicant and the volume of other online submissions.

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